NBA trade season: 3 solutions for fixing roster issues, including a fresh start for Anthony Davis

December has arrived, which means the NBA trading window is about to widen, especially as December 15 approaches. Thats the date when most recently signed contracts become tradable, giving teams more flexibility to maneuver deals ahead of the February trade deadline. Heres a look at three trade scenarios that could resolve key roster concerns.

Trade Idea 1: Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs Swap Players

The Bulls could send guard Coby White to the Spurs in exchange for Kelly Olynyk and a 2029 lottery-protected first-round pick. White, who could enter free agency next summer, might otherwise leave Chicago for nothing. Acquiring Olynyk, whose contract is also expiring, and a future pick provides the Bulls some return while avoiding long-term salary commitments.

For the Spurs, adding White would improve spacing and enhance a guard-heavy rotation. Playing alongside rising star Victor Wembanyama could make San Antonio an attractive landing spot for White to re-sign in the future. Of course, the risk exists that White could be a short-term rental, costing a first-round pick for only a half-season contribution.

Trade Idea 2: Dallas Mavericks and Chicago Bulls Discuss Anthony Davis Deal

Another potential move involves sending Anthony Davis and Jaden Hardy from the Mavericks to the Bulls for Nikola Vuevi, Zach Collins, and Kevin Huerter. This trade would focus on Chicagos long-term competitiveness and could increase the chances of White re-signing, although it is separate from the first trade scenario.

Davis trade value is complicated. Hes 33 in March, has played only 16 games since joining Dallas, and carries a $111.1 million future salary obligation. For Dallas, offloading his contract provides financial flexibility and allows the team to build around younger pieces like Cooper Flagg. For Chicago, acquiring Davis offers a major boost at the center position, potentially improving playoff prospects without sacrificing backcourt talent or draft picks.

Trade Idea 3: Sacramento Kings and Memphis Grizzlies Player Swap

The Kings could trade DeMar DeRozan to the Grizzlies for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Memphis, struggling at 9-12 and facing uncertainty around Ja Morant, could benefit from DeRozans playmaking abilities. The former All-Star could raise their ceiling while only $10 million of his $25.7 million salary is guaranteed next season, limiting long-term financial risk.

Sacramento would gain a reliable, off-ball player in Caldwell-Pope, who can enhance ball movement and defense while allowing stars like Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and Keegan Murray more touches. Additionally, Caldwell-Popes contract could be valuable next summer as he approaches the final year of his deal.

Author: Sophia Brooks